WHO official speaks about impact of COVID-19 spike in Europe on Azerbaijan

Currently, the number of coronavirus infections is increasing in many European countries, which shows once again that the pandemic is still going on, said World Health Organization (WHO) Representative in Azerbaijan and Head of the Country Office Hande Harmanci, Report informs.

The WHO official said that the reason for the increase, especially in Eastern European countries, is likely to be related to the Omicron strain:

"Even versions B1 and B2 of the same strain have appeared, and B2 is faster. High-risk individuals, as well as those over the age of 65, must be protected by health workers. Regardless of the easing of quarantine rules, it is important to wear a mask indoors."

Harmanci added that the vaccination rate in Azerbaijan is more than 48%:

"Our goal is over 70%. I hope that those who haven't got the vaccine will be inoculated. In recent days, cases and deaths in the country have dropped significantly. But we are still living in a pandemic."